Pesticide Education Specialist - Agronomy and Natural Resources

Penn State University•University Park, IL

3d•$54,060 - $78,444•Hybrid

About The Position

Penn State Extension is seeking a Pesticide Education Specialist to join our nationally recognized Pesticide Education Program. As a member of the Pesticide Education Program, the individual will be responsible for identifying key educational objectives, developing educational materials, and presenting at educational events to support these objectives throughout the state. The individual will be expected to support the program’s established deliverables, which are set by funding partners. It is expected that the individual in the position will be able to provide pesticide safety content directed primarily to pesticide applicators throughout the state to accomplish three objectives: 1) adopt application practices that contribute to improved water quality through reduced pesticide drift and groundwater contamination, 2) educate applicators and consumers on proper application, storage, and disposal of pesticides to increase food safety when pesticides are used during the food production process, and 3) improve pesticide management practices to reduce human exposure.

Requirements

Excellent presentation, writing, and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Ability to work effectively in a team and with diverse audiences within the state
Master's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Valid driver’s license
Must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

Training in Entomology, Plant Pathology, Horticulture, Crop and Soil Sciences, or other related field
Experience with a broad knowledge of pests, pest management, and pesticide safety
Bilingual fluency in English and Spanish

Responsibilities

Creating and developing pesticide safety presentations for statewide use by the Program and county extension educators; presenting at numerous certification and recertification training programs throughout the state.
Reviewing and revising pesticide applicator category study materials and creating accompanying exam questions.
Becoming familiar with federal and state laws and regulations that govern pesticides.
Helping to develop audio-visual programs, multimedia projects, and various articles; and supporting our social media and web presence.